The History of Diners in New Jersey
New Jersey, often dubbed the "Diner Capital of the World," boasts a unique culinary and cultural legacy that revolves around these iconic eateries. With over 500 diners still operating across the state, more than in any other place in the United States, New Jersey's diners are more than just places to grab a bite—they are symbols of American optimism, community hubs, and testaments to immigrant ingenuity. These prefabricated, chrome-clad establishments, reminiscent of railroad cars, have dotted the Garden State's highways and suburban streets for over a century, serving everything from endless cups of coffee to hearty comfort foods like burgers, pancakes, and disco fries. But why New Jersey? The answer lies in a perfect storm of historical factors: superior road infrastructure, a dense working-class population, proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, and a wave of entrepreneurial immigrants, particularly from Greece, who turned diners into family-run...